Island Travel

The Dunes on the Waterfront: New England's Premier Coastal Escape

2025-10-14
Experience the quintessential New England charm at The Dunes on the Waterfront, a distinguished resort in Ogunquit, Maine, recognized among the world's finest. This coastal haven, blending historical grace with contemporary comforts, provides an idyllic escape for those seeking tranquility and beauty by the sea.

Your Idyllic Coastal Escape Awaits: Discover The Dunes on the Waterfront!

An Award-Winning Coastal Haven: The Dunes on the Waterfront Secures a Spot on Travel + Leisure's Prestigious 'It List 2025' for Unrivaled Charm and Serenity.

For those envisioning a romantic coastal escapade or a peaceful solo journey infused with classic New England allure, The Dunes on the Waterfront is an essential consideration. This exquisite resort has earned the third position on Travel + Leisure's esteemed \"It List 2025,\" showcasing the nation's top new resorts. Nestled gracefully along the picturesque Ogunquit River in Maine, The Dunes presents a captivating cottage-style retreat.

Indulge in a tranquil weekend characterized by sun-drenched beach relaxation and engaging aquatic pursuits. Retreat to the welcoming cottages at The Dunes, adorned with gentle, coastal-inspired decor that mirrors the surrounding natural beauty. Spanning 12 verdant acres of meticulously maintained grounds and pristine sandy shores, the resort boasts a rich history dating back nearly nine decades. A recent and extensive $10 million refurbishment has seamlessly integrated this historic sanctuary into the 21st century, all while meticulously preserving its distinctive character. While a plethora of seaside dining establishments, a vibrant performing arts venue, and an engaging art museum are conveniently located nearby, the resort's abundant amenities offer such a complete experience that guests may find themselves content to spend their entire vacation within its dreamy embrace.

Embrace Serenity and Comfort: Unveiling the Charming Seaside Cottages at The Dunes on the Waterfront, Your Perfect Coastal Sanctuary.

Nestled within the vibrant heart of Ogunquit, a celebrated beach town renowned for its walkability and as a prime Maine escape, lies The Dunes on the Waterfront. For visitors traveling from out of state, the resort is conveniently situated a mere 30-minute drive north of Portsmouth International Airport. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by its distinctive white clapboard facade, framed by a charming picket fence, leading to a collection of 21 cottages that evoke the peaceful ambiance of a quaint seaside community. The warm welcome is further enhanced by freshly baked chocolate chip cookies offered at check-in.

Each cottage is bathed in a soft, natural glow, filtering through expansive picture windows, while screened porches, furnished with comfortable Adirondack chairs, provide an ideal setting to savor a morning coffee amidst breathtaking waterfront vistas. Should you choose to venture beyond your private cottage oasis, The Lodge serves as a welcoming communal space, offering espresso beverages, refreshing smoothies, delectable pastries, and artisanal charcuterie boards, all available for enjoyment across the property.

With an impressive array of on-site amenities, there's always something engaging to do at The Dunes. Explore the property on a classic vintage beach cruiser, or glide along the river in a kayak, paddleboard, or cabana boat—all provided complimentary for overnight guests. Alternatively, take a refreshing dip in the heated outdoor pool, encircled by comfortable reclining beach chairs shaded by cheerful yellow parasols.

Venture Beyond the Tranquil Shores: Discover the Rich Cultural and Culinary Delights Awaiting Exploration Beyond The Dunes on the Waterfront.

Beyond the tranquil confines of The Dunes on the Waterfront, a wealth of local attractions awaits. A short 10-minute drive south leads to the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, which houses a permanent collection of over 3,000 modern and contemporary artworks. The museum operates daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., typically from mid-April through mid-November (as of the time of writing). For enthusiasts of live performance, the Ogunquit Playhouse stages Broadway-caliber productions on its historic stage.

Should you desire to dine outside the resort, Ogunquit offers a robust culinary scene. The Front Porch Piano Bar & Restaurant combines fresh seafood with lively nightly entertainment (their lobster rolls are highly recommended). For a more refined experience, Blue Bistro provides three-course dinners and specialty cocktails, all accompanied by stunning ocean views. To conclude your day, return to The Dunes for a relaxing evening gathered around a fire pit, enjoying s'mores. For those wishing to prolong their adventure, Maine's coastal edge promises a scenic road trip through secluded harbors and charming seaside villages.

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